THE SECRET INGREDIENT TO GROWTH ISN’T WHAT YOU THINK IT IS…IT’S THIS.
Entrepreneurship isn’t for everybody.
If you’re going to set some goals in your life, whether it’s as simple as overcoming a negative habit or behavior, growing in your faith, fitness, finances, or business, whatever your goals are, make sure you’re surrounded by the right groups of people.
You don’t need another business coach, a new project idea or a new system. I think a lot of people really underestimate the power of a manager or guide; someone who’s already been through the path you’re attempting to undertake.
I was reading a story about a young woman who was ready to quit her business. She kept saying, “I don’t think this is for me. I’ll just go back to my regular 9-5. At least I had a boss who told me what to do because the last couple of years have been very difficult.”
And I get it. But let me tell you something as somebody who’s been in the entrepreneurship game going on 20 years now. You can live out your calling in life and business and still ask God for an accountability partner. You have to be willing to let yourself and others hold you accountable, even when the results aren’t showing up yet. You have to be willing to let them know that you’re cut out for this, when you have no clue of what’s on the other side of what God has called you to do.
Because the truth is this: YOU HAVE TO BE ACCOUNTABLE.
It’s your ability to accept responsibility for honest and ethical conduct toward God and others. That’s the thing. When you see people who have been accountable, first to God, and then to themselves and others, it’s not because they had it easy. It’s a combination of clarity, commitment, and consequence. That’s the secret ingredient for growth. Your ability to clearly define your goals, hold yourself and others accountable to you with consistent follow-up, embracing the process of growth, and learning from mistakes.
But let’s take it deeper.
Are you having trouble reaching your goals? Are you settling for good while forsaking what’s best? Are you honest with yourself, and are there others checking in on you? Are you checking in on yourself?
Because that’s really where the game changes.
It’s about being honest with yourself and choosing a healthier alternative.
Take life for example. We are drowning in a sea of sexual images and sinful attractions. They are available in movies, on the internet, on our phones, on prime-time television, and even on billboards. Everywhere we look, we are bombarded with enticements for sexual relationships and activities that don’t honor God. How do we stay pure, rooted, and committed in a culture that proclaims that sinful pleasures are a human right?
What keeps the real ones in the game, the ones still standing, is their ability to connect with like-minded people without quitting. Now look, if you feel like you need to quit? That’s fine. But just know, when you see someone who’s been doing this a long time, trust me, they’ve got their bad days. And no, they’re not always posted on the internet or turned into some motivational reel.
We cannot stand strong on our own. We must have counsel and strength more dynamic than the tempting influences around us. Where can we find that strength and wisdom? We can do so by reading God’s Word and doing what it says. We can find ways to remove temptations from our lives and seek accountability partners who will encourage us in our daily walk.
So next time you see someone still in the trenches, still following their calling and living out their purpose, just know, they’ve taken some major losses. And probably more losses than wins.
And no, you don’t have to guess where those people are. I created an online tool specifically for Christian creatives, entrepreneurs, and business owners who want to grow a Christ-CENTERED Brand or Creative Business in their industry.
If that’s you, click here to schedule your 15- minute discovery call with me. What’s this for? Think of it like your accountability score- but for your brand.
Erica Kenechi is a Christian mindset and purpose coach, passionate about helping people overcome fear and step boldly into their God-given calling. Through her blog, podcast, and e-books, she equips believers to live with confidence, faith, and courage. You can connect with Erica on Instagram @Erica.k.inc and find more resources at ericakenechi.com.